From Wild Child to Posh Prince: How Prince Harry Became Our Favorite Royal

If you’re a member of the royal family, there’s no such thing as living a private life. From the moment he was born, Prince Harry has lived his life on display. The prince has been through a lot from his childhood as a rambunctious little boy and losing his mother at a very young age, to his days as a wild teen and bad boy military student who wore Nazi costumes and went streaking. However, the red-headed prince has lived a much calmer life recently. For the last several years, he was a military man and the cool uncle to his brother Prince William and sister-in-law, Duchess Kate Middleton’s children. However, after meeting and falling in love with Meghan Markle, an American actress, the prince has never been more popular.

Officially retired from the military, and taking on even more royal duties from his aging grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Harry has never seemed happier. Take a look back at his journey to becoming one of the most beloved royals.

1. The second son

Prince Henry Charles Albert David was born on Sept. 15, 1984, at St. Mary’s Hospital in London, England. The second son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana of Wales, Prince Harry had a ton of expectations placed on him. However, from the beginning, his parents tried to make sure that he was seen for exactly who he was.

Though his formal name is Henry Charles, his parents made it known that he would be referred to as Harry to his family and friends. The nickname spread like wildfire, not only did Kensington Palace begin to formally call him Harry, the media and the public followed suit.